Thus began a bountiful relationship for both player and coach. Peterson became a superstar at Oklahoma and is now one of the NFL’s greatest running backs, and Gundy has continued to reap the benefits of signing Peterson to this day.

Gundy and the Sooners have reeled in at least one top-15 running back each year since 2010, with Katy (Texas) High senior Rodney Anderson becoming the latest with his commitment earlier this month. Gundy’s process for finding those backs, though, involves far more than just watching film and assessing on-field talent.

“I really almost try to scare players away when I recruit running backs,” Gundy said in an interview with The Oklahoman.